No one needs it, (until they need it) implementing a new desktop backup solution

Faced with upgrading a set of Veritas Netbackup servers that backed up 1000 Windows desktop computers and a Retrospect server that backed up 200 Macintosh desktop computers, Bucknell University embarked on a project to identify and implement a new desktop backup solution. Working together, Technology Support and Systems Integration selected, configured, and installed CommVault Galaxy as a backup solution for all desktop Macintosh and Windows computers.Added pressures during the process included the incompatibility of the old servers with newer operating systems and increasing failures in aging backup software. In an attempt to maintain the optimum levels of available data, we developed a strategy and schedule to transition 1200 computers to the new backup as soon as disk space became available.This paper will examine the criteria used to select a new desktop backup solution and the implementation strategies employed to insure comprehensive data protection during the transition. Content will include selection of an administrative mechanism for the new server and service, examination of data protection and retention policies, documentation, customization to address end-user concerns about reporting and notification, and techniques used to install and uninstall the software from client workstations.